It is with a broken heart our family announces the passing of Melvin W. Bedsaul of Newport News, VA, at 67 years of age. He exemplified the true definition of a man, husband, father, and grandfather. He honorably served 20 years in the United States Navy with conviction and fortitude, representing the highest values of this nation. His service, whether abroad or at home, upheld the highest tradition and honor of the United States Navy.

Upon retirement from military service, he was employed by Liebherr Mining Equipment as a quality assurance inspector for the next 20 years. His exacting specificity ensured that no equipment he examined failed to meet the standards of operational excellence.

His passion for life was representative of the way he lived. Melvin shared his zest for life through his hobbies and activities with everyone he met, from the late nights and early mornings spent fishing with friends on the pier or out on a boat to his famous fishing stories and claims of being "the best fisherman" were to the angst of his friends. Mel could often be found golfing in the woods (sometimes on the greens), at late poker nights spent with friends, and being the life of any party he attended.

He was predeceased by his father, Donald O. Bedsaul. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Terry; his daughters, Michelle Pascucci and husband Frankie, Jennifer Ray and husband Michael Ray; stepson Nathan Garrett; grandsons, Aiden and Theo, and granddaughters Alexis, Skylar, and Olivia; his mother, Dorothy Bedsaul; brother David Bedsaul; sisters, Lucy Merritt, Diana Davenport, Lenora Adkinson, Brenda Epling, and Bonnie Yarborough.

The world is seemingly smaller without his loving, caring, loyal, and generous nature. His greatest joy was his family and nothing compared to the love and compassion he shared with family and friends. He will be missed by all.

All services and burial with full military honors will be private.